B.C. Bolt's Blog, page 7
December 30, 2013
Low-Profile Honor
The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.
Proverbs 30:28
Agur lists the spider as one of the smallest but wisest creatures on earth. Perhaps we can learn wisdom from such a innocuous creature? The common household spider spends its day working to build a web in order to survive. There are no web building competitions or recognition for their hard effort. Yet they continue daily to maintain their web. They have no regard for their surroundings - whether it be a dark closet or a brightly lit cathedral their level of effort is the same. Even in the king's palace listed in the verse above, their focus remains the same: build and maintain their web.
What if we approached our Christian life in the same manner? Focused solely on the fundamentals of maintaining a close walk with Christ. No distractions based upon our performance and no regard for our surroundings. I can only imagine the results would be astounding! We are often too worried about the acceptance of others to worry about acceptance by our Savior.
The spider teaches us well in how to obtain low profile honor: if we focus on the fundamental of serving Christ, he will honor us in ways we could never imagine!
Proverbs 30:28
Agur lists the spider as one of the smallest but wisest creatures on earth. Perhaps we can learn wisdom from such a innocuous creature? The common household spider spends its day working to build a web in order to survive. There are no web building competitions or recognition for their hard effort. Yet they continue daily to maintain their web. They have no regard for their surroundings - whether it be a dark closet or a brightly lit cathedral their level of effort is the same. Even in the king's palace listed in the verse above, their focus remains the same: build and maintain their web.
What if we approached our Christian life in the same manner? Focused solely on the fundamentals of maintaining a close walk with Christ. No distractions based upon our performance and no regard for our surroundings. I can only imagine the results would be astounding! We are often too worried about the acceptance of others to worry about acceptance by our Savior.
The spider teaches us well in how to obtain low profile honor: if we focus on the fundamental of serving Christ, he will honor us in ways we could never imagine!
December 29, 2013
The Prodigal Son
Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.
Proverbs 29:3
This verse reminds me of the parable of the Prodigal Son (Mark 15:11-31). We are all familiar with how the son spent his inheritance and ended up with the pigs. But at low point of his life, he recognized the error of his ways and went to repent to his father. And we remember how the father celebrated his return while the older son fumed and fussed about the father's reaction.
The question is: which son displayed wisdom? While we love to look down our noses at the sinful squandering of wealth, didn't we do the same? Christ offered us peace and eternal life but we did not partake until we recognized the wretched situation we were in and repented. Compare this to the older brother who continued the ritual of service but never found the value of forgiveness.
Let's ensure that we know the joy of forgiveness and not just the ritual of service. For forgiveness is truly a cause of celebration and causes our Father to rejoice.
Proverbs 29:3
This verse reminds me of the parable of the Prodigal Son (Mark 15:11-31). We are all familiar with how the son spent his inheritance and ended up with the pigs. But at low point of his life, he recognized the error of his ways and went to repent to his father. And we remember how the father celebrated his return while the older son fumed and fussed about the father's reaction.
The question is: which son displayed wisdom? While we love to look down our noses at the sinful squandering of wealth, didn't we do the same? Christ offered us peace and eternal life but we did not partake until we recognized the wretched situation we were in and repented. Compare this to the older brother who continued the ritual of service but never found the value of forgiveness.
Let's ensure that we know the joy of forgiveness and not just the ritual of service. For forgiveness is truly a cause of celebration and causes our Father to rejoice.
December 28, 2013
Cheap Sins
To have respect of persons is not good: for for a piece of bread that man will transgress.
Proverbs 28:21
My father used to warn me of evil people saying that they would "sell their Mother for a dollar". As a young boy, it frightened me to view the person as sinister, no matter how fake their smile. When questioned, Dad explained that anyone who would quickly show favoritism would quickly choose to do wrong. Solomon describes it a little differently above but the jist is the same. Those who show respect of persons will sin for smallest of monetary values.
Only later did I realize it is not about the money but about human nature. It is our nature to sin unless God is in control of our lives. One aspect that changes when He is in control is that we no longer show respect of persons but rather show the love of Christ to all.
Are there areas in your life where God doesn't have control? If so, we are powerless to keep from sinning in that area. Only with God in control are we able to reverse the habits of human nature. Surrender your actions to God and He will prevent you from cheaply sinning.
Proverbs 28:21
My father used to warn me of evil people saying that they would "sell their Mother for a dollar". As a young boy, it frightened me to view the person as sinister, no matter how fake their smile. When questioned, Dad explained that anyone who would quickly show favoritism would quickly choose to do wrong. Solomon describes it a little differently above but the jist is the same. Those who show respect of persons will sin for smallest of monetary values.
Only later did I realize it is not about the money but about human nature. It is our nature to sin unless God is in control of our lives. One aspect that changes when He is in control is that we no longer show respect of persons but rather show the love of Christ to all.
Are there areas in your life where God doesn't have control? If so, we are powerless to keep from sinning in that area. Only with God in control are we able to reverse the habits of human nature. Surrender your actions to God and He will prevent you from cheaply sinning.
December 27, 2013
Tough Love
Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
Proverbs 27:6
Solomon describes wounds from a friend are faithful - but how can someone who cares for you, harm you? Perhaps, that is the true measure of friendship - someone who is willing to tell you what you don't want to hear! Many will simply agree with us verbally but will withhold there true opinion, simply not to hurt our feelings. However, a friend will "call a spade a spade", even if it is not what we want to hear.
One additional factor in a friendship is the delivery of such bad news - it is not with contempt or humiliation. But rather with love. And if that love is based in Christ, it is a healing love, regardless of the severity of the topic.
Proverbs 27:6
Solomon describes wounds from a friend are faithful - but how can someone who cares for you, harm you? Perhaps, that is the true measure of friendship - someone who is willing to tell you what you don't want to hear! Many will simply agree with us verbally but will withhold there true opinion, simply not to hurt our feelings. However, a friend will "call a spade a spade", even if it is not what we want to hear.
One additional factor in a friendship is the delivery of such bad news - it is not with contempt or humiliation. But rather with love. And if that love is based in Christ, it is a healing love, regardless of the severity of the topic.
December 26, 2013
Fuel For The Fire
As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
Proverbs 26:21
As winter weather grips us in its frigid grasp, we are all familiar with keeping the heat going! Solomon describes the need to continue to feed a fire by adding coal or wood in order to keep a fire going. And the same is applicable to the strife in our life - if we remove the fuel, the strife ceases to exist.
When we are frustrated and angry with another, any action or word seems to flare up the frustration. However, the smoldering embers are within us, not by their actions- if we remove the source, the anger goes away. But how? While it is often difficult to forgive and forget, we can achieve peace by turning over our frustration to God. When we simply give it up to Him, he removes the smoldering embers within us. Then, any further action by the other individual ceases to cause us to flare up. David promises peace and prevention of being offended in Psalms 119:165-168 if we follow His commandments.
Do you have a simmering frustration with others? Turn to God and he will remove the embers of frustration and provide a peace beyond understanding. Philippians 4:6-8.
Proverbs 26:21
As winter weather grips us in its frigid grasp, we are all familiar with keeping the heat going! Solomon describes the need to continue to feed a fire by adding coal or wood in order to keep a fire going. And the same is applicable to the strife in our life - if we remove the fuel, the strife ceases to exist.
When we are frustrated and angry with another, any action or word seems to flare up the frustration. However, the smoldering embers are within us, not by their actions- if we remove the source, the anger goes away. But how? While it is often difficult to forgive and forget, we can achieve peace by turning over our frustration to God. When we simply give it up to Him, he removes the smoldering embers within us. Then, any further action by the other individual ceases to cause us to flare up. David promises peace and prevention of being offended in Psalms 119:165-168 if we follow His commandments.
Do you have a simmering frustration with others? Turn to God and he will remove the embers of frustration and provide a peace beyond understanding. Philippians 4:6-8.
December 25, 2013
Share The Good News
As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.
Proverbs 25:25
We are all familiar with the deep sense of refreshment of an ice cold drink of water on a hot summer day. Nothing compares to the deep penetrating coldness that seems to replenish us from the inside out. The same can be said of the good news heard by the wise men on the night when Christ was born. While they traveled far, it paled in comparison to the deep-penetrating refreshment they felt upon seeing the Savior of the World! Have you experienced the same penetrating change in your life? If so, you know first-hand how refreshing the new perspective puts on your life.
As you share your gifts with others today, why not share the refreshing good news of Jesus Christ with those you love? His gift of salvation will long out-last any earthly gift we can share. And they will share the same refreshing experience that we felt when we first met our Savior. Share His love with others - it is His birthday we are celebrating, so why not make Him our Guest of Honor?
Proverbs 25:25
We are all familiar with the deep sense of refreshment of an ice cold drink of water on a hot summer day. Nothing compares to the deep penetrating coldness that seems to replenish us from the inside out. The same can be said of the good news heard by the wise men on the night when Christ was born. While they traveled far, it paled in comparison to the deep-penetrating refreshment they felt upon seeing the Savior of the World! Have you experienced the same penetrating change in your life? If so, you know first-hand how refreshing the new perspective puts on your life.
As you share your gifts with others today, why not share the refreshing good news of Jesus Christ with those you love? His gift of salvation will long out-last any earthly gift we can share. And they will share the same refreshing experience that we felt when we first met our Savior. Share His love with others - it is His birthday we are celebrating, so why not make Him our Guest of Honor?
December 23, 2013
The Joy Of Giving
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
Proverbs 23:7
As we share our gifts this Christmas season, is there sharing in our heart? Are we cheerfully sharing or are we begrudgingly giving? No matter how cheap or expense the gift, the value is based upon the manner in which it is shared. We have all received gifts from our children that would never compare to the exquisite gifts from a department store but they are treasured more. Why? Because we know they were made with love.
Ensure that your gifts are deeply appreciated - not for their cost but their value. Share them with the love of Christ in your heart.
Proverbs 23:7
As we share our gifts this Christmas season, is there sharing in our heart? Are we cheerfully sharing or are we begrudgingly giving? No matter how cheap or expense the gift, the value is based upon the manner in which it is shared. We have all received gifts from our children that would never compare to the exquisite gifts from a department store but they are treasured more. Why? Because we know they were made with love.
Ensure that your gifts are deeply appreciated - not for their cost but their value. Share them with the love of Christ in your heart.
December 22, 2013
Scrooge's Nightmare
Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate: For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.
Proverbs 22:22-23
Solomon cautions us against mistreating the poor and afflicted for the Lord will plead their cause. What a timely reminder during the holiday season! While we dash to and fro seeking the perfect gift for our loved ones, how much effort has been expended to assist those less fortunate in life?
Are they a part of our holiday gift-giving? Do we include consideration for their necessities of life in our long list of electronic gadgets and latest rage for gifts? I often wonder, which will be more appreciated? Which will have a lasting impact upon some one's life?
It is frightening to consider that the Lord will plead their issue. How will you respond to his challenge? Can you turn your head or cross the street to ignore Christ? Will you push Him away? Remember Jesus words in Matthew 25:40 - "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
Don't be a Scrooge this Christmas. Share his blessing with those around you. You will be assured not to have Scrooge's nightmares but the blessings of our Creator!
Proverbs 22:22-23
Solomon cautions us against mistreating the poor and afflicted for the Lord will plead their cause. What a timely reminder during the holiday season! While we dash to and fro seeking the perfect gift for our loved ones, how much effort has been expended to assist those less fortunate in life?
Are they a part of our holiday gift-giving? Do we include consideration for their necessities of life in our long list of electronic gadgets and latest rage for gifts? I often wonder, which will be more appreciated? Which will have a lasting impact upon some one's life?
It is frightening to consider that the Lord will plead their issue. How will you respond to his challenge? Can you turn your head or cross the street to ignore Christ? Will you push Him away? Remember Jesus words in Matthew 25:40 - "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
Don't be a Scrooge this Christmas. Share his blessing with those around you. You will be assured not to have Scrooge's nightmares but the blessings of our Creator!
December 21, 2013
The Wrong Congregation
The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.
Proverbs 21:16
I am not a big fan of horror movies but the grisly image painted by Solomon shakes me to the bone! The image of a church full of dead people is literally frightening! Can you imagine waking in a room full of silent skeletons? No matter how brave your heart, it would be more than a heart could stand!
Solomon's strict warning against leaving the way of salvation is just that: a frightening concept. Imagine, knowing the pleasure of walking with God only to choose to depart from His way? What would prompt a person to do such a thing? Simply put, choosing our way versus His way. It is frightening but a reality with those who choose not to follow Christ.
If you have loved ones who have not accepted Christ, renew your efforts to lead them out of the dead and into the living! The friends they keep will not be so frightening!
Proverbs 21:16
I am not a big fan of horror movies but the grisly image painted by Solomon shakes me to the bone! The image of a church full of dead people is literally frightening! Can you imagine waking in a room full of silent skeletons? No matter how brave your heart, it would be more than a heart could stand!
Solomon's strict warning against leaving the way of salvation is just that: a frightening concept. Imagine, knowing the pleasure of walking with God only to choose to depart from His way? What would prompt a person to do such a thing? Simply put, choosing our way versus His way. It is frightening but a reality with those who choose not to follow Christ.
If you have loved ones who have not accepted Christ, renew your efforts to lead them out of the dead and into the living! The friends they keep will not be so frightening!
December 20, 2013
The Best Present Under The Tree
The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.
Proverbs 20:7
We often struggle for just the right gift for our children. Something that is memorable, highly desired and possibly sentimental are attributes we use when seeking the ultimate present for our own special children. Perhaps, Solomon describes the best gift of a lifetime in the verse above.
What parent does not desire to see their children blessed by the Lord? While we have limited resources to provide for our children, the Lord has infinite resources and abilities to bless our children! But the price can not be placed on our credit card for payment after the holidays. It requires daily payment in a non-monetary fashion - our behavior. I was blessed with a father who set the example of living a Christian life and more importantly taught me how to recover when I failed to follow Christ. While he gave me many wonderful gifts over the years. His personal example of living a Christian life was the best gift I ever received from my parents.
What are we giving our children today? Are we coping with the stresses of life and the holidays? Do we unveil our bitterness towards others within the confines of our home? Do we earnestly seek and involve God in our daily life? While we personally benefit from following Christ, the blessings to our children is promised in the verse above.
Give the ultimate gift to your children by submitting you will to His will. It is the present that will last all year and never grow old!
Proverbs 20:7
We often struggle for just the right gift for our children. Something that is memorable, highly desired and possibly sentimental are attributes we use when seeking the ultimate present for our own special children. Perhaps, Solomon describes the best gift of a lifetime in the verse above.
What parent does not desire to see their children blessed by the Lord? While we have limited resources to provide for our children, the Lord has infinite resources and abilities to bless our children! But the price can not be placed on our credit card for payment after the holidays. It requires daily payment in a non-monetary fashion - our behavior. I was blessed with a father who set the example of living a Christian life and more importantly taught me how to recover when I failed to follow Christ. While he gave me many wonderful gifts over the years. His personal example of living a Christian life was the best gift I ever received from my parents.
What are we giving our children today? Are we coping with the stresses of life and the holidays? Do we unveil our bitterness towards others within the confines of our home? Do we earnestly seek and involve God in our daily life? While we personally benefit from following Christ, the blessings to our children is promised in the verse above.
Give the ultimate gift to your children by submitting you will to His will. It is the present that will last all year and never grow old!
